Abstract: The current study examined the intimacy function of autobiographical memory in
adulthood by focusing on the relation between the emotional quality of autobiographical memory
and marital quality. There were three specific study aims. First, the study examined whether the
emotional valence (positive or negative) of autobiographical memory predicts marital quality.
Second, it examined whether the emotional intensity of autobiographical memory is a stronger
predictor of marital quality than valence. Third, the study examined whether the emotional
quality (i.e., memory valence and intensity) of autobiographical memory predicts marital quality
differently with age. Young, middle-aged, and older men and women (N = 268) participated in
the study. Participants completed the study measures using an online survey tool. Measures
included assessments of positive and negative marital quality. Participants also wrote about two
relationship-defining autobiographical memories (one positive, one negative) and rated the
emotional quality (i.e., valence and intensity) of these autobiographical memories. Regression
analyses revealed that the valence and intensity of negative relationship-defining memories
predicted marital quality: less negatively-valenced and less intense negative relationship-defining
memories predicted better quality of marriage. Age moderated some of the relations between the
emotional quality of relationship-defining autobiographical memories and the quality of marriage.
Results are interpreted in the context of the theoretical intimacy function of autobiographical
memory. A discussion of the limitations of the current study and its potential implications for
marriage counseling is included.